6/13/2021
Dear Joe,
May I call you Joe? You seem like a guy who doesn’t stand on formalities so I assume you’ll be comfortable if we are on a first name basis. I like using first names, but also respect the fact that some people prefer to use titles that make it clear where we all stand in the hierarchy. For example, some of my students prefer to call me “professor,” even one who I have known for about 8 years. I knitted her child a baby blanket & visited her home, but she still addresses me formally. On the flip side, I have colleagues who prefer to be called, “Dr.,” by everyone. They want the world to accord them the respect that goes with the title.
I am telling you all this because when you visit QE2 this PM, you will have to be hyper-aware of these formalities. You should not nudge her with your elbow when you tell a joke, or put your hand on her shoulder when you confide in her. You don’t have to bow or kiss her hand, but if you don’t, she’ll raise her eyebrows & the press will write about it.
Are you happy with the G7? It seems you convinced the crew that you truly are “on the same page.” It’s too bad that BoJo has compromised his trustworthiness by waffling on the Brexit deal regarding sausages & such. Is there anything you can do about that?
I like the idea of creating an “infrastructure bank” to counter China’s Belt & Road Initiative. Will you be able to get Congress to support that when they can’t agree on how to pay for our own infrastructure improvements? I hope so.
I haven’t heard anything about G7 conversations about Myanmar. Please let us know how you & your buddies plan to promote democracy there so it does not become a failed state with a new generation of severely malnourished & uneducated people.
It looks like Jill enjoyed her visit to the Reception class at Connor Downs Academy. I hope the bunny liked the carrots that she brought along for it.
Be sure to check out the photos of the protest art. It’ll bring some levity to your day.
BYBS,
